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In Depth

Ishestar is a tour operator with over 30 years of experience specializing in riding holidays in the amazing unspoilt nature of Iceland. Iceland is one of the least densely populated countries in the world, with a total population of 320.000 people. The vast uninhabited highlands are a treasure and the most authentic way to travel the trails of the Vikings is on horseback.

Ishestar offers a great variety of tours for riders of all levels, ranging from one day tours at their Riding Center located just outside Reykjavík, Iceland‘s capital city, up to 10-12 day tours across the highlands. The landscape is at times out of this world; vast fields of soft moss, lava, geothermal hot springs, black sand beaches, mountains, rivers, glaciers and waterfalls.

Amongst the unique tours on offer are; Riding under the Northern lights, exploring the hot springs area at Geysir and the glorious waterfall Gullfoss, joining local farmers driving herds of horses or gathering sheep in the highlands and beach rides.

Ishestar is originally a family company and all their tours are operated by local farmers who know the horses and landscape like the back of their hand. The atmosphere on the tours in friendly and fun and we focus on security, professionalism and sustainability.

Why riding in Iceland?

The Icelandic Horse
The breed is best known for its four-beat smooth gait, the “tölt”, which is very comfortable for the rider, especially on a longer riding tour. Riding an Icelandic horse in its native habitat is an authentic riding experience.

Herd
Riding alongside a free running herd is traditional when traveling on horseback in Iceland. On longer tours riders change horses at least once a day and therefore experience a variety of horses.

Icelandic Nature
Iceland is the least densely populated country in Europe, with pure, unpolluted and truly magical landscapes.

Nature bathing
In Iceland (and on the Ishestar riding tours) you can find hot spring oasis featuring hot pools and geothermal hot springs that are perfect for relaxing after a long riding day.

Accommodations

Accommodations on these Iceland riding tours range from sleeping bags in mountain huts to hotel accommodations.

Food

Homemade Icelandic food prepared with pure ingredients. Menus consist of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic fish or meat. Vegetarian meals are available if requested in advance. All riders make their own packed lunch from the breakfast table.